This page was created by Vedanth Natarajan.
03 Spanish Ceiling [WAM 1952.18] - Why was it made and how was it used?
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The Spanish Ceiling was constructed first and foremost for the purpose of being an essential architectural structure in part of a palace. Ceilings are an essential element of architecture and mainly function to provide shelter and define a space which is separate from the “outside” world. The Spanish Ceiling in particular was also built with a structural purpose, as the long wood beams which compose ceilings such as these often supported the above floors in Nasrid architecture. In the region and historical context of its construction, the ceiling was decorated lavishly with geometric and floral ornament as a symbol of wealth and power for the nobility who may have commissioned its creation. During this time period, buildings were designed to be seen from within. Hence, decoration was focused on the floors, walls, and ceilings of rooms. These decorative elements were also concentrated to lower floors which were utilized more frequently than the upper floors during long periods of heat in the summer. In this way, in addition to being a symbol of status, the ceiling was most likely used as a gathering space to host various individuals of wealth and influence. The intricate and elegant designs on the Spanish Ceiling would have been focal points for the eyes of all who gathered under it.
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